The new strategic guidance emphasizes flexibility and adaptability. The C-27J was developed and procured to provide a niche capability to directly support Army urgent needs in difficult environments such as Afghanistan where we thought the C‐130 might not be able to operate effectively. However, in practice, we did not experience the anticipated airfield constraints for C‐130 operations in Afghanistan and expect these constraints to be marginal in future scenarios. Since we have ample inventory of C‐130s and the current cost to own and operate them is lower, we no longer need nor can we afford a niche capability like the C-27J aircraft. The Air Force and the Army will establish joint doctrine relating to direct support.
Hardcore.
